In celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, we invited the remarkable women of Sutherland Labs to share their perspectives on fostering an empowering work environment, as well as their views on how the industry at large can pave the way for a more inclusive future.
How can women support each other in the industry?
If you have expertise, share it through informational interviews, mentorship, internships, and connections to others in your network. Be open and candid with one another about the gains made and challenges that remain. Amplify each others’ voices. – Marise Phillips, Senior Director – Service Design
Don’t put up with crap! Stand up for other women. – Senior Research Director
It’s just like any other industry, if we see women at the top of companies, it will seem like a much more achievable goal. I also think it’s important for companies to promote and support working mothers. To create a flexible working environment for mothers, and to make them feel valued, even if they sometimes have a sick kid hanging off them during meetings. – Mel Wadey, Senior Design Researcher
Digital Content ProducerOne of the most impactful ways we can keep making strides is by fostering a culture of support and solidarity among women! By lifting each other up and celebrating our victories, we can inspire and motivate future generations of women in the industry. Be vocal in challenging stereotypes and bias. By addressing this we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive industry for all women.
Which women role models would you celebrate in our industry?
Kerry Bodine, is someone I admire in the field of Service Design – she’s articulate, prolific, a good storyteller, excellent analysis AND consulting skills. Also Sam Ladner, Indi Young, and Brene Brown. – Marise Phillips, Senior Director – Service Design
I’d celebrate ALL of our inspirational women in Sutherland Labs! After 20 years I’m still humbled by learning from the most amazing and diverse minds – it’s a joy and an honor. – Gemma Wisdom, Senior Director – Marketing
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